Minister Barr: ACT stands ready to support refugees brought to Australia from Nauru
- Written by ACT Government
Released 08/02/2016
The Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has written to the Prime Minister about the future of the children and families who were brought to Australia from Nauru.
I am pleased to endorse Premier Andrews' letter and the ACT would be prepared to welcome any of these families to the ACT. I commend his compassion and that of other state and territory first ministers who have also supported the stance made by the Victorian Premier. Ultimately though, this issue rests with the Federal Government and the pressure must be on the Prime Minister and his colleagues to show national leadership.
Canberrans have always been proud to welcome refugees. Minister for Multicultural Affairs Yvette Berry formalised this by declaring the Australian Capital Territory as a Refugee Welcome Zone last year. Many thousands of refugees have been welcomed, supported and included by communities across the territory since self government began.
The ACT has offered to help with the Syrian refugee crisis, and this is another example of the ACT’s commitment to being a jurisdiction that welcomes refugees.
The city of Canberra stands ready to provide a safe, secure and welcoming environment for these children and their families. The Canberra community has already demonstrated its willingness to help the refugees facing a return to offshore detention centres, with many Canberrans coming forward in the last few days who are prepared to provide shelter or make donations of support to these people.
There are children among this group who were born in Australia and these are, indeed, exceptional circumstances.
We can, and should, show compassion.
After all, for those who've come across the seas, we've boundless plains to share.
- Statement ends -
Section: Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases
